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Your Complete Guide to Tax Resolution | All You Need to Know
Your Complete Guide to Tax Resolution | All You Need to Know

Your Complete Guide to Tax Resolution | All You Need to Know

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    man and woman frustrated by taxes Are you struggling with a tricky tax problem right now? Do you need the help of a tax resolution specialist? What is tax resolution, and why might you need it? These questions and more are answered in this article. In fact, you will soon discover how tax resolution can help you!

    If you are feeling overwhelmed or frustrated because of outstanding tax problems, be sure to check out the rest of this article, where we walk through exactly what you need to look for in a specialist and how to best determine what your tax needs are, so you can find solutions!

    What is Tax Resolution?

    Internal Revenue Service Building You might wonder what tax resolution even is. The answer is pretty simple, really, as tax resolution is finding solutions to tax problems. Tax problems can range anywhere from tax debt to not filing your tax return on time. Keep in mind that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is not unreasonable and will generally try to work with you.

    While the definition of tax resolution is pretty clear, understanding what solutions are available for you might be a bit complicated. It is always best to work with a qualified tax resolution specialist when trying to resolve ugly tax problems or those you did anticipate! As we will point out, many different options might work for you! It really depends on your situation.

    Learn more about Tax Resolution and how you can be helped by the services offered.

    How Can Tax Resolution Help You?

    Couple Needs help with IRS and Taxes It’s important to know how tax resolution can help you. You might be wondering, what is tax resolution? What kind of services does a tax resolution specialist offer? Here are a few reasons that you should look into getting the help of tax resolution.

    Tax resolution services can help you with tax debt.

    You might owe money to the IRS. Perhaps you have tax debt that you are not even aware of! Whatever the situation is, you need to try to file your tax return on time, but more importantly, pay your tax on time. Otherwise, you might have to incur interest and penalties. It is always smart to work with a tax consultant in these circumstances!

    Tax resolution services can help you file your tax return.

    You might think that you can just work with a tax professional to file your tax return, but what if it is late? They will likely be able to assist you with that also. A tax resolution specialist should understand the regulations when it comes to late tax returns better. It all depends on the qualifications of the tax professional you are working with.

    Tax resolution services can help with letters from the IRS.

    If you have received correspondence of any kind from the IRS, you might feel like your world is closing in. A tax resolution specialist can help ease your worries, as they understand how the IRS communicates. They will likely know how to resolve the issues with minimal complications. Their experience and wisdom can prove to be very handy!

    Learn more about How Tax Resolution Services Can Help You for additional information.

    What to Know About Tax Debt

    Tax debt can be overwhelming. You might feel like a heavy brick is on your chest if you have a large amount of tax debt. There is tax help available for this situation, though. Be sure you understand your options when it comes to tax debt.

    Does the IRS Forgive Tax Debt?

    Debt Forgiveness The short answer to this question is yes. However, the IRS does not always grant complete forgiveness for tax debt. In fact, this rarely happens. The government does understand that there are special circumstances that may warrant the forgiveness of some tax debt. In these cases, the IRS will work with you to resolve your outstanding tax debt.

    The IRS would rather receive some money than none at all. For this reason, they often allow taxpayers to pay a portion of their debt while forgiving the rest of their outstanding debt. Payment plans are available for those taxpayers who qualify.

    Learn more about how the IRS Forgives Tax Debt in some circumstances and how you can best take advantage of this.

    How to Achieve Forgiven Tax Debt

    There are a number of programs and other options available that relate to tax debt and the tax resolution of a taxpayer. Of course, not all of the options will work for every taxpayer since each circumstance is different. The IRS would like to resolve any tax debt and receive at least a partial payment when possible.

    The first recommendation in trying to gain forgiven tax debt is to work with a qualified tax resolution specialist. This is someone who understands the tax code of the IRS and has sufficient experience to help you resolve this issue. Of course, you are not required by law to work with an outside source; it is often just easier and more efficient.

    Phone call from IRS The second recommendation is to examine the correspondence you have received from the Internal Revenue Service. Determine what they need from you, how much they think you owe, and any other relevant factors that you can obtain from their correspondence. Keep in mind that the IRS does not call taxpayers, so watch out for tax scams or con artists!

    A third recommendation is to determine which tax debt program you qualify for. You will want to look at things like your taxable income, when you last filed your tax return, and many other factors when deciding which program will work best for you. Generally, a taxpayer does not qualify for multiple programs, but a tax expert can help you explore your options!

    Learn more about How to Achieve Forgiven Tax Debt!

    What to Know About Back Taxes

    Back taxes are those past taxes that you have not filed and/or paid. It is a smart idea to work with the IRS to resolve any outstanding tax payments that need to be made. You will not only feel better by doing this, but you will also clear your conscience of this worry.

    Learn more about What to Do If You Owe Money to the IRS.

    What to Do with Back Taxes

    It is crucial that you pay your back taxes as soon as you can. Back taxes mean you owe taxes from previous tax returns. This could date back many years, and it is important that you aim to pay the taxes you owe quickly. To limit the amount of penalties you will owe, pay your back taxes as fast as you are able to. This will also minimize interest and any other applicable fees.

    Learn more about What to Do with Back Taxes.

    How to File Back Taxes

    Back Taxes While there are certain limitations when filing back taxes, the IRS will work with you to pay back what you owe, provided you are acting in good faith. The goal with back taxes is to minimize the interest, penalties, and any other fees that the IRS might be charging on your behalf.

    To do this, you will need to have an installment plan or another acceptable arrangement in place with the IRS. It is very important that you file all tax returns in a timely manner. If you cannot file your tax return on time, be sure to ask for a tax extension. This will give you time to file your tax return, but it will not give you additional time to pay any taxes due to the government.

    While there are restrictions to whether or not a taxpayer qualifies for this, an installment plan (or payment plan) might be the right choice for you if you cannot pay your taxes on time. This allows the IRS a chance to retrieve some of the money owed to them and plan ahead for the future payments you will be paying them.

    Learn more about How to File Back Taxes by understanding the options available to you.

    How to Find Help for Back Taxes

    If you owe money to the IRS, it is important that you communicate with them, even if you are unable to pay any amount at this time. Communicating with the IRS can be a challenge, which is the reason that it is helpful to work with the right tax consultant. They can help you navigate the messy waters that come with dealing directly with the IRS.

    Learn more about How to Find Help for Back Taxes or contact our office for more information today!

    How to Find the Best Tax Resolution Solutions for You

    Finding Tax Resolution You might have now learned all about what tax resolution services are and how they might be able to help you with your particular circumstances. Let’s look at some solutions you might gain with the help of a tax resolution specialist.

    Learn even more about the right tax resolution solutions for you today!

    Tax Debt Solutions

    As you explore the various tax debt solutions, you might realize that there are several options. However, they depend on your particular situation and circumstances. We, of course, recommend working with a tax professional to achieve the best tax debt solutions.

    The examples listed below are just a few of the ones available to those who have tax debt. It is also important to keep in mind that each tax debt solution is dependent on many factors. This is something that a tax expert can help you with.

    Offer in Compromise

    offer in compromise There are cases when the IRS will not require you to pay the full amount of the taxes you owe. In this case, the best option for you might be the Offer in Compromise. With this option, you could reduce the amount of tax you owe significantly! This is a special circumstance, though.

    To learn more about Offer in Compromise, be sure to check out the Offer in Compromise IRS Booklet. This booklet will walk you through the steps that you need to follow in order to apply for the Offer in Compromise status. Further information can be found on IRS Form 656: OIC.

    Currently Not Collectible

    This option is a great solution if you qualify for it. When you achieve the Currently Not Collectible status, the IRS will not continue with any collection efforts. Any levies will also stop. If you have a particularly difficult financial situation, this might be the best option for you.

    To be eligible for this status, you must be able to prove you are going through financial hardship. A financial hardship is having difficulty with cost of living expenses, such as food, clothing, personal care costs, utility expenses like electricity and gas, and other costs.

    Fresh Start Initiative Program

    This new program that is offered by the IRS helps taxpayers with any tax debt they might have. There are many benefits to the Fresh Start Initiative Program, but the chief one is to reduce taxpayers’ tax debt so that they will not face the financial hardship of having taxes due.

    Dealing with IRS Wage Garnishments

    In cases where you are facing IRS Wage Garnishments, a tax resolution specialist can help out. Wage garnishments typically do not happen overnight. You will receive written notification from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) before they begin garnishing your wages.

    Surviving IRS Seizures

    Another option that will affect your bottom line is IRS Seizures. If that is something that you are facing, be sure to seek the counsel of a tax specialist. They can help you work with the IRS to best determine why the IRS is seizing your assets and what you can now do about it.

    IRS Installment Payment Plan

    IRS Payment Plan If you have missed a tax payment or need to make payments rather than pay the full amount at once, the IRS Installment Payment Plan would likely be the best option for you. With the installment plan, you can make scheduled payments to the IRS.

    Understanding IRS Liens and IRS Levies

    If you have gotten to the point where you are facing IRS Liens or IRS Levies, you really should seek outside counsel from a tax specialist. The IRS lien and levy can truly make life difficult, causing much frustration and emotional pain. Work with the IRS to resolve tax issues quickly.

    The Unfortunate IRS Audit

    IRS Tax Audit If you are facing an IRS audit, it is a good idea to find the right IRS Tax Audit Representation. You will want someone who understands the IRS rules and regulations and what you can expect when the IRS does a tax audit. Many tax specialists can also represent you during the tax audit.

    Innocent Spouse Relief

    Innocent Spouse Relief protects a spouse when their significant other commits fraud or another relevant criminal act. The protection is offered for any taxes that are due to the state or IRS. If a taxpayer qualifies, they might be able to be relinquished from any taxes due.

    Solutions for Back Taxes

    Back Taxes Owed can really be a pain, especially if you are worried about the consequences. Because the Internal Revenue Service does charge penalties, interest, and other fees (depending on your circumstances), it’s important to get back tax resolution as soon as possible.

    Solutions for Late Taxes

    Unfiled Tax Returns can cause you to worry and get frustrated. When it comes to filing on time during tax season, you can file an extension if you cannot file on time, but keep in mind that your payment is still due on the due date, which is typically April 15 for individual taxpayers.

    Finding Help with Tax Resolution

    Tax Consultant Getting the help you need during tax season is critical. Make sure that you find someone who is reliable and responsible. You will also want to consider their ethics when it comes to your financial situation. Seek a tax consultant who is well-educated and experienced!

    How to Find a Tax Resolution Specialist

    Finding the right tax resolution specialist is imperative. You must search for someone who is able and willing to help you solve your tax problems. Most certainly, you do not want to hire someone who is just going to add to your financial burden or tax problems (or headaches)!

    Specialization

    One of the first steps in hiring a tax resolution specialist in determining your needs. What are your tax problems? Are you filing your annual tax return late? Do you need help filing a business tax return? If so, you will want to find someone who is skilled and experienced in that area.

    Credentials, Qualifications, and Experience

    Looking at the qualifications and credentials of the tax resolution specialist is a smart move. If they are a Certified Tax Resolution Specialist (CTRS), as designated by the American Society of Tax Problem Solvers (ASTPS), they have passed a specialized exam called the CTRS Exam.

    Keep in mind that not all qualifying tax resolution experts will also be Certified Tax Resolution Specialists. As you look at the credentials of the tax expert you are looking to hire, pay attention to their experience in the area of tax that you are having issues with. Experience is critical.

    Cost

    Cost vs Benefit Another important factor to keep in mind when hiring a tax resolution specialist is the cost. Bear in mind that you might pay penalties and fees, along with interest, if you are late in regards to your taxes. Those costs could outweigh the cost of hiring the help of an expert. It may be cheaper to just pay the taxes. 

    Typically if you owe $10,000 or more it is a good idea to consult a professional for help.

    Other Factors

    Other deciding factors you might want to consider are any reviews or recommendations for this tax professional, how personalized their service is compared to your needs, how detailed they seem to be in explaining everything to you, and how well-organized they are!

    Learn more about finding the right tax resolution specialist.

    How to Find the Right Tax Resolution Services Company

    When seeking out the right tax resolution services, it is a good idea to assess the abilities of each service. Do they have what it takes to get the job done? Will they help you resolve all of your tax problems? Are they qualified to talk to the IRS (if you need them to)? Are they an Enrolled Agent for the IRS?

    With a tax service or business, you are often given more than one specialty. The business might specialize in tax audits AND tax resolution or something similar. While this is not always the case, it can certainly be a bonus if you have more than one tax concern.

    As you compare various tax resolution services or businesses, keep in mind their versatility and how they can best meet your needs. Most businesses offer a free tax consultation. In that consultation, you can best assess whether the business is a good fit for you or not.

    If you are attending multiple tax consultations to compare businesses, you might want to take along a list of questions. This will allow you to be better prepared to make useful notes on how each business can best help you, which will come in handy when you make a comparison.

    Learn more about finding the right tax resolution service.

    Frequently Asked Tax Resolution Questions

    You might quickly discover that your tax resolution questions are answered in the following questions and answers. If you still have something on your mind in regards to tax resolution, please reach out to our office.

    What happens if I don’t pay my taxes on time?

    Paying your taxes on time is important. If you do not pay your taxes on time, depending on the specific circumstances, you might incur penalties, fees, and interest. If you cannot pay the full amount of your tax debt, work with the IRS to start an installment plan.

    What happens if I owe back taxes?

    Depending on the circumstances, you will need to pay the amount you owe. You will also be required to pay any penalties, fees, and interest that you might owe from having such an amount outstanding. The IRS can possibly work with you on a payment plan, though.

    What happens if I do not file my taxes on time?

    Tax Time Filing your taxes on time is critical. Your tax payment must not be late, but in order for that to happen, you need to know how much you will have to pay. To find out that amount, you must file your taxes with the government in a timely fashion.

    How does the IRS forgiveness of tax debt work?

    There are a couple of payment plans available for those who cannot pay the full amount of their tax debt. For example, there is an installment plan, which allows the taxpayer to make long-term monthly payments or payments via some other arrangement. It depends on what you work out with the IRS.

    What is the IRS phone number?

    The toll-free phone number to reach the Internal Revenue Service is 1-800-829-1040. It is a good idea to call during regular business hours and to realize that there might be a significant wait time during the busy season. You can reach them Monday through Friday, 7 AM to 7 PM. There are other ways to reach the IRS.

    Conclusion

    Hopefully, you now feel confident in the definition of tax resolution. We aim to answer your questions while also providing you with useful information to make informed decisions.

    If you still have tax questions or tax problems that need solutions, please fill out the form below for a free consultation. That is the best way for us to assess your needs and how we can help you! You can trust Indiana’s tax expert – Sherry Borshoff!

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